Ahh two weeks in God's country gives one a whole new perception of the LCBO when it comes to wine pricing, especially when you see some of the prices in the sale that started on Saturday!
We enjoyed some superb BC wines, Kettle Valley Pinot Gris, Quail's Gate Rose and JT's Sun Rock Vineyard Shiraz jump to mind but I wasn't about to duplicate last year's 'wine in the suitcase' fiasco so not much made the return trip to the east.
So back to the business at hand, some good ones in this past weekend's release:
Three from South America
ALAMOS MALBEC 2008 Mendoza - Great value, I’m not sure it’s an 89 but …. Score - 89. (Bruce Stephen, North Shore Outlook (B.C.), $13.95
SANTA JULIA SYRAH ROSÉ 2008 Mendoza- a great buy for a late summer rose $11.95
APALTAGUA ENVERO GRAN RESERVA 2007 Colchagua Valley, Apalta Vineyard Selection This wine earned Gold Medals this year at both the Concours Mondial de Bruxelles and Monde Selection International Wine Contest. Made with Carmenère and a dollop of Cabernet Sauvignon, $15.95
Three from OZ
BALLAST STONE MERLOT 2006 – One of Gord Stimmel’s weekend picks - $16.95
BRANSON COACH HOUSE GREENOCK BLOCK SHIRAZ 2005 Barossa Valley, South AustraliaCould be an Ebeneezer at 15 bucks less – might be worth it to buy a box (of 6) if you can find it!. Score - 93. (Harvey Steiman, www.winespectator.com) $24.95
ROLF BINDER HEINRICH SHIRAZ/MATARO/GRENACHE 2006 – It’ll be interesting to compare this to the ChateauNeuf du PApes - $29.95
One lonely Italian
CECCHI VINO NOBILE DI MONTEPULCIANO 2004 another One of Gord Stimmel’s weekend picks - $24.95
Two from Spain
ÈTIM SELECCIÓN 2006 – a 90 pointer at $15 bucks. Gotta be worth a buy!The 2006 Etim Seleccion is a blend of 60% Garnacha, 30% Carinena, [Carignan] and 10% Syrah aged for 6 months in seasoned French and American oak. If you want to experience Priorat without paying the price, this is the way to go. Score - 91. (Jay Miller, erobertparker.com,) $15
LAN GRAN RESERVA . Score - 90. (Thomas Matthews, www.winespectator.com,) $24.95
And three from the Rhone
LES GALETS ROUGES CHÂTEAU MOURGUES DU GRÈS 2007 $14.95
CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE HAUTE PIERRE 2007 DELAS – ageworthy $ 35.95 - 91 from WS and 92 from Parker.
VACQUEYRAS DOMAINE SAINT-PIERRE 2005 (91-93). (R. Parker erobertparker.com) $24.95
For now, I'll go for the Branson Coach House and go looking through the weekend sale list too.
Monday, August 31, 2009
Thursday, August 13, 2009
August 15th Release - Not too much but to get excited about
Upon seeing the cover of the latest Vintages catalogue, " Chile's Brilliant Showstoppers", I thought OH BOY a batch of Smoking Wines , available in big quantities! But No, Marketing strikes again! What they meant to say was " These 3 Chilean varieties of grapes can sometimes result in making "Chile's Brilliant Showstoppers" but not in this Vintages catalogue! Ah well, there are a few good picks...
Chile focus
Santa Rita ‘Medalla Real’ Special Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 Maipo Valley, Chile $19.95 – Always a favourite – let it breathe for a while and have a big slab of something red!
Laura Hartwig Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 Colchagua Valley, Chile $13.95 – Well priced!Tabalí Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 $14.95
Two nice chard’s, expensive for Chile, but s.b. good.Cono Sur ‘20 Barrels’ Chardonnay 2007 Chile $24.95 –Montes Alpha Chardonnay 2007 Chile $22.95
Best of the Rest!Burrowing Owl Syrah 2005 VQA Okanagan Valley $48.95 – AS close to a cult wine as we get here in the GWN – buy one for a special occasion or if you want to impress a visitor with our wines. Just don’t tell them what you paid…the Ebeneezer is more wine for less.
Barossa Valley Estate ‘Ebenezer’ Shiraz 2004 Barossa Valley, South Australia $39.95 Stupendous wine, always a real mouthful!
Kendall-Jackson ‘Vintner’s Reserve’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 California $24.95 – Always tasty
Barossa Valley Estate ‘Ebenezer’ Cabernet – almost as good for you Cab fans. Definitely a Barossa cab!
George Wyndham ‘Founder’s Reserve’ Shiraz 2005 $22.95 Lots of medals-well priced
Château Roquetaillade ‘La Grange Vielles Vignes’ 2005 $21.95 Always a 90 pointer in WS. At this price, I’d buy one…me, a Bordeaux? I must need a break!
Frescobaldi 'Tenuta di Castiglioni' Cabernet Sauvignon/Sangiovese 2006 IGT Toscana $21.95 Take off another couple of $$’s and it’ll be priced right. Otherwise, stick to the Chilean Cabs.Chile focus
Chile focus
Santa Rita ‘Medalla Real’ Special Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 Maipo Valley, Chile $19.95 – Always a favourite – let it breathe for a while and have a big slab of something red!
Laura Hartwig Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 Colchagua Valley, Chile $13.95 – Well priced!Tabalí Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 $14.95
Two nice chard’s, expensive for Chile, but s.b. good.Cono Sur ‘20 Barrels’ Chardonnay 2007 Chile $24.95 –Montes Alpha Chardonnay 2007 Chile $22.95
Best of the Rest!Burrowing Owl Syrah 2005 VQA Okanagan Valley $48.95 – AS close to a cult wine as we get here in the GWN – buy one for a special occasion or if you want to impress a visitor with our wines. Just don’t tell them what you paid…the Ebeneezer is more wine for less.
Barossa Valley Estate ‘Ebenezer’ Shiraz 2004 Barossa Valley, South Australia $39.95 Stupendous wine, always a real mouthful!
Kendall-Jackson ‘Vintner’s Reserve’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 California $24.95 – Always tasty
Barossa Valley Estate ‘Ebenezer’ Cabernet – almost as good for you Cab fans. Definitely a Barossa cab!
George Wyndham ‘Founder’s Reserve’ Shiraz 2005 $22.95 Lots of medals-well priced
Château Roquetaillade ‘La Grange Vielles Vignes’ 2005 $21.95 Always a 90 pointer in WS. At this price, I’d buy one…me, a Bordeaux? I must need a break!
Frescobaldi 'Tenuta di Castiglioni' Cabernet Sauvignon/Sangiovese 2006 IGT Toscana $21.95 Take off another couple of $$’s and it’ll be priced right. Otherwise, stick to the Chilean Cabs.Chile focus
Thursday, July 30, 2009
August 1 Vintages Release ( Or The where oh where has the summer gone? release)
Ahhh, summer time and my wallet gets to take a breather. The best pick is sub-$12, from the great ’07 Rhone vintage. I wish there was more variety in the B.C. selections but then, I don’t expect to see many Ontario wines in B.C. either!
There are a few other picks as well and only one makes it over $25. - it’s an (as always) overpriced Californian.
DOMAINE DU GRAND RETOUR PLAN DE DIEU CÔTES DU RHÔNE-VILLAGES 2007 - should be terrific and who can beat the price?! $11.95
CHÂTEAU DE NAGES RÉSERVE 2007 – Should also be very tasty $14.95
DE MARTINO LEGADO RESERVA SYRAH 2006 Score - 90. Sounds like a lovely Syrah from Chile. If you liked last year's Antu Ninquen, take a run at this bad boy (90 pts. Molesworth, winespectator.com,) $16.95
Best of BC? Well Best they can do at the LCBO anyway…
I love the SEE YA LATER RANCH CHARDONNAY 2007 but at $20.95 it’s a bit expensive, go for the Inniskillen Okanagan Chard at $13.95 instead.
JACKSON-TRIGGS PROPRIETORS' GRAND RESERVE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2006 $22.95- Try the equivalent from Niagara and serve them blind!
SANDHILL MERLOT 2006 – Interesting to compare it to the Columbia Crest from Washington St. $19.95
MISSION HILL FAMILY ESTATE RESERVE SHIRAZ 2006 $22.95
COLUMBIA CREST GRAND ESTATES MERLOT 2005 A terrific winery , annually their Merlot is very good. – 88 points seems too low. $19.95
BABICH BLACK LABEL SAUVIGNON BLANC 2008 NZ- Typical NZ quality at $17.95
GRANT BURGE BAROSSA VINES SHIRAZ 2006 - Probably an 88 or 89 to my palate $17.95
DE BORTOLI DB SELECTION ROSÉ 2008 Nothing says summer quite like a rosé even if you’re having it while sitting watching the rain fall like we are this summer! - $12.95
ROBERT HALL CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2006 – A bit expensive for what you get but not bad - $29.95
There are a few other picks as well and only one makes it over $25. - it’s an (as always) overpriced Californian.
DOMAINE DU GRAND RETOUR PLAN DE DIEU CÔTES DU RHÔNE-VILLAGES 2007 - should be terrific and who can beat the price?! $11.95
CHÂTEAU DE NAGES RÉSERVE 2007 – Should also be very tasty $14.95
DE MARTINO LEGADO RESERVA SYRAH 2006 Score - 90. Sounds like a lovely Syrah from Chile. If you liked last year's Antu Ninquen, take a run at this bad boy (90 pts. Molesworth, winespectator.com,) $16.95
Best of BC? Well Best they can do at the LCBO anyway…
I love the SEE YA LATER RANCH CHARDONNAY 2007 but at $20.95 it’s a bit expensive, go for the Inniskillen Okanagan Chard at $13.95 instead.
JACKSON-TRIGGS PROPRIETORS' GRAND RESERVE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2006 $22.95- Try the equivalent from Niagara and serve them blind!
SANDHILL MERLOT 2006 – Interesting to compare it to the Columbia Crest from Washington St. $19.95
MISSION HILL FAMILY ESTATE RESERVE SHIRAZ 2006 $22.95
COLUMBIA CREST GRAND ESTATES MERLOT 2005 A terrific winery , annually their Merlot is very good. – 88 points seems too low. $19.95
BABICH BLACK LABEL SAUVIGNON BLANC 2008 NZ- Typical NZ quality at $17.95
GRANT BURGE BAROSSA VINES SHIRAZ 2006 - Probably an 88 or 89 to my palate $17.95
DE BORTOLI DB SELECTION ROSÉ 2008 Nothing says summer quite like a rosé even if you’re having it while sitting watching the rain fall like we are this summer! - $12.95
ROBERT HALL CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2006 – A bit expensive for what you get but not bad - $29.95
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Vintages July 18th release - some terrific selections for under $20
A strong Aussie release punctuated by bargains from southern France and Italy. Primitivo/ Zin fandel fans should find plenty to enjoy this time around as well.
The Picks – Lots of them and finally a release where they’re all under $20!
*** MOMO SAUVIGNON BLANC 2008 $18.95
*** MAN VINTNERS CHENIN BLANC 2008 $13.95
*** SCHILD ESTATE OLD BUSH VINE GMS GRENACHE/MATARO/SHIRAZ 2007 $18.95
*** PIRRAMIMMA OLD BUSH VINE GRENACHE 2004 $19.95
*** TYRRELL'S RUFUS STONE SHIRAZ $19.95
*** KUMKANI CRADLE HILL CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005 $19.95
*** Two Cotes du Rhones, DOMAINE COMTE DE LAUZE CÔTES DU RHÔNE 2007 $13.95 DOMAINE GRAND VENEUR LES CHAMPAUVINS CÔTES DU RHÔNE VILLAGES 2007$19.95
*** GLADIATOR PRIMITIVO DI MANDURIA 2006 $14.95
The whites
*** MOMO SAUVIGNON BLANC 2008 Might be less grassy than some NZ SB - 90. (Harvey Steiman, $18.95 it’ll be interesting to compare with the Peninsula Ridge.
PENINSULA RIDGE WISMER VINEYARD SAUVIGNON BLANC 2007 ... The Wismer Vineyard delivers flavours that are rich, sweet and pungent.... beautifully balanced and refreshing, but the acidity in the Wismer is softer and broader ... Score - 4 1/2 Stars (out of 5). (Rod Phillips) $18.95
*** MAN VINTNERS CHENIN BLANC 2008 An underappreciated white wine that South Africa should work harder to make this their signature white wine. Intriguing scents of apple, lemon cream and vanilla, with a floral element emerging with aeration. Rich, supple and round, with nicely concentrated apple and pear nectar flavors along with an exotic note of honey. $13.95
The Reds
*** SCHILD ESTATE OLD BUSH VINE GMS GRENACHE/MATARO/SHIRAZ 2007 blend of 55% Grenache, 25% Mataro (a.k.a. Mourvèdre) and 20% Shiraz is sourced from old vines with an average age of 70 years! Should be a great wine for the price. $18.95
*** PIRRAMIMMA OLD BUSH VINE GRENACHE 2004 - Terrific producer across the board. This’ll be a new one for me but I love their Shiraz and Petit Verdot so…. $19.95
*** TYRRELL'S RUFUS STONE SHIRAZ Gold Medal winner at both the Adelaide Wine Show 2008 and the Canberra Wine Show 2007. The James Halliday Score - 95. but even if you knock off 3 or 4 points for palate differences it’s still a great buy at $19.95
*** KUMKANI CRADLE HILL CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005 – The review is too good to pass up…I’ll try one to see…Dark and juicy, with a nice bittersweet cocoa edge to the currant, black cherry, fig cake, tobacco and loam flavors. Score - 91. (James Molesworth), $19.95
*** Two Cotes du Rhones, the less expensive DOMAINE COMTE DE LAUZE CÔTES DU RHÔNE 2007 $13.95 should be ready for immediate consumption, DOMAINE GRAND VENEUR LES CHAMPAUVINS CÔTES DU RHÔNE VILLAGES 2007 will drink well now or can sit in the dark for a few years. Both are from the wonderful 2007 vintage. $19.95
The best of the rest
KATNOOK FOUNDER'S BLOCK SHIRAZ 2005 - 92.from James Halliday, probably more like 88 or 89 but priced right $17.95
BLACKJACK SHIRAZ 2004 Campbell Mattison of the The Wine Front (Nov 27, 2006) was also enthusiastic about this wine, awarding it a score of 93 points. - 90. (Harvey Steiman, WS. $28.95
PARKER COONAWARRA ESTATE TERRA ROSSA CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2003 At six years of age, this fine Coonawarra Cabernet is just entering into its prime drinking years. $29.95
RAVENSWOOD OLD VINE ZINFANDEL 2006 Deep ruby. Jammy raspberry and blackberry on the nose, with notes of fresh rose and baking spices adding complexity. 90-91. (Josh Raynolds $22.95
GLADIATOR PRIMITIVO DI MANDURIA 2006 Deliciously spicy, aromatic and robust is Primitivo (Zinfandel's Italian twin) at its best. This 2006 is true to form, with brambly black fruit, sage, tar, and meaty notes all combining on the velvety, medium-bodied, mouth-coating palate. $14.95
FEUDI DI SAN MARZANO PRIMITIVO 2007 Very modern fruit filled character. Rich, lush and very satisfying - warm, fruity damsons, lively. $13.95
LA PALAZZETTA BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2003 $42.95
TERRE DA VINO ESSENZE BAROLO 2004 $44.95
TORRES GRAN CORONAS RESERVA CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005 Here's the half-bottle size of a very popular wine from our VINTAGES Essentials Collection. No way it’s a 90 POINT WINE but the CONVENIENCE of a small bottle is niec $9.95
SANTADI GROTTA ROSSA CARIGNANO 2006 - Score - 89. $16.95
The ISD’s – Big $$’s, hard to find and in limited stores only
STERLING RESERVE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 1999 Napa Valley . Score - 91. (James Laube, www.winespectator.com, Oct. 15, 2002) $65.00
VERAISON KRUPP VINEYARD MERLOT 2004 Score - 91. (Steve Heimoff, Wine Enthusiast, Dec. 15, 2007) $63.00
CLARENDON HILLS BLEWITT SPRINGS GRENACHE 2003 … exotic, full-throttle, high velocity, mouth-staining, unctuously textured, dense ruby/purple-hued 2003 Grenache Old Vines Blewitt Springs is classic southern Australian Grenache. Score - 95. $65.00
CLARENDON HILLS HICKINBOTHAM SYRAH 2001 Anticipated maturity: 2007-2020. Score - 95. (Robert Parker Jr.,) $75.00
PODERE BRIZIO BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2001 Complex aromas of prune, berry and lightly toasted oak follow through to a full-bodied palate, with very ripe underlying fruit, hints of vanilla and a long finish. Best ever from here. Best after 2008. Score - 92. (James Suckling) 64.95
MARQUÉS DE CÁCERES MC 2005 This syrupy red delivers blueberry and blackberry fruit and bitter chocolate flavors in a dense texture, with muscular tannins and notes of mineral and licorice.. Score - 90. $37.00
The Picks – Lots of them and finally a release where they’re all under $20!
*** MOMO SAUVIGNON BLANC 2008 $18.95
*** MAN VINTNERS CHENIN BLANC 2008 $13.95
*** SCHILD ESTATE OLD BUSH VINE GMS GRENACHE/MATARO/SHIRAZ 2007 $18.95
*** PIRRAMIMMA OLD BUSH VINE GRENACHE 2004 $19.95
*** TYRRELL'S RUFUS STONE SHIRAZ $19.95
*** KUMKANI CRADLE HILL CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005 $19.95
*** Two Cotes du Rhones, DOMAINE COMTE DE LAUZE CÔTES DU RHÔNE 2007 $13.95 DOMAINE GRAND VENEUR LES CHAMPAUVINS CÔTES DU RHÔNE VILLAGES 2007$19.95
*** GLADIATOR PRIMITIVO DI MANDURIA 2006 $14.95
The whites
*** MOMO SAUVIGNON BLANC 2008 Might be less grassy than some NZ SB - 90. (Harvey Steiman, $18.95 it’ll be interesting to compare with the Peninsula Ridge.
PENINSULA RIDGE WISMER VINEYARD SAUVIGNON BLANC 2007 ... The Wismer Vineyard delivers flavours that are rich, sweet and pungent.... beautifully balanced and refreshing, but the acidity in the Wismer is softer and broader ... Score - 4 1/2 Stars (out of 5). (Rod Phillips) $18.95
*** MAN VINTNERS CHENIN BLANC 2008 An underappreciated white wine that South Africa should work harder to make this their signature white wine. Intriguing scents of apple, lemon cream and vanilla, with a floral element emerging with aeration. Rich, supple and round, with nicely concentrated apple and pear nectar flavors along with an exotic note of honey. $13.95
The Reds
*** SCHILD ESTATE OLD BUSH VINE GMS GRENACHE/MATARO/SHIRAZ 2007 blend of 55% Grenache, 25% Mataro (a.k.a. Mourvèdre) and 20% Shiraz is sourced from old vines with an average age of 70 years! Should be a great wine for the price. $18.95
*** PIRRAMIMMA OLD BUSH VINE GRENACHE 2004 - Terrific producer across the board. This’ll be a new one for me but I love their Shiraz and Petit Verdot so…. $19.95
*** TYRRELL'S RUFUS STONE SHIRAZ Gold Medal winner at both the Adelaide Wine Show 2008 and the Canberra Wine Show 2007. The James Halliday Score - 95. but even if you knock off 3 or 4 points for palate differences it’s still a great buy at $19.95
*** KUMKANI CRADLE HILL CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005 – The review is too good to pass up…I’ll try one to see…Dark and juicy, with a nice bittersweet cocoa edge to the currant, black cherry, fig cake, tobacco and loam flavors. Score - 91. (James Molesworth), $19.95
*** Two Cotes du Rhones, the less expensive DOMAINE COMTE DE LAUZE CÔTES DU RHÔNE 2007 $13.95 should be ready for immediate consumption, DOMAINE GRAND VENEUR LES CHAMPAUVINS CÔTES DU RHÔNE VILLAGES 2007 will drink well now or can sit in the dark for a few years. Both are from the wonderful 2007 vintage. $19.95
The best of the rest
KATNOOK FOUNDER'S BLOCK SHIRAZ 2005 - 92.from James Halliday, probably more like 88 or 89 but priced right $17.95
BLACKJACK SHIRAZ 2004 Campbell Mattison of the The Wine Front (Nov 27, 2006) was also enthusiastic about this wine, awarding it a score of 93 points. - 90. (Harvey Steiman, WS. $28.95
PARKER COONAWARRA ESTATE TERRA ROSSA CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2003 At six years of age, this fine Coonawarra Cabernet is just entering into its prime drinking years. $29.95
RAVENSWOOD OLD VINE ZINFANDEL 2006 Deep ruby. Jammy raspberry and blackberry on the nose, with notes of fresh rose and baking spices adding complexity. 90-91. (Josh Raynolds $22.95
GLADIATOR PRIMITIVO DI MANDURIA 2006 Deliciously spicy, aromatic and robust is Primitivo (Zinfandel's Italian twin) at its best. This 2006 is true to form, with brambly black fruit, sage, tar, and meaty notes all combining on the velvety, medium-bodied, mouth-coating palate. $14.95
FEUDI DI SAN MARZANO PRIMITIVO 2007 Very modern fruit filled character. Rich, lush and very satisfying - warm, fruity damsons, lively. $13.95
LA PALAZZETTA BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2003 $42.95
TERRE DA VINO ESSENZE BAROLO 2004 $44.95
TORRES GRAN CORONAS RESERVA CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005 Here's the half-bottle size of a very popular wine from our VINTAGES Essentials Collection. No way it’s a 90 POINT WINE but the CONVENIENCE of a small bottle is niec $9.95
SANTADI GROTTA ROSSA CARIGNANO 2006 - Score - 89. $16.95
The ISD’s – Big $$’s, hard to find and in limited stores only
STERLING RESERVE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 1999 Napa Valley . Score - 91. (James Laube, www.winespectator.com, Oct. 15, 2002) $65.00
VERAISON KRUPP VINEYARD MERLOT 2004 Score - 91. (Steve Heimoff, Wine Enthusiast, Dec. 15, 2007) $63.00
CLARENDON HILLS BLEWITT SPRINGS GRENACHE 2003 … exotic, full-throttle, high velocity, mouth-staining, unctuously textured, dense ruby/purple-hued 2003 Grenache Old Vines Blewitt Springs is classic southern Australian Grenache. Score - 95. $65.00
CLARENDON HILLS HICKINBOTHAM SYRAH 2001 Anticipated maturity: 2007-2020. Score - 95. (Robert Parker Jr.,) $75.00
PODERE BRIZIO BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2001 Complex aromas of prune, berry and lightly toasted oak follow through to a full-bodied palate, with very ripe underlying fruit, hints of vanilla and a long finish. Best ever from here. Best after 2008. Score - 92. (James Suckling) 64.95
MARQUÉS DE CÁCERES MC 2005 This syrupy red delivers blueberry and blackberry fruit and bitter chocolate flavors in a dense texture, with muscular tannins and notes of mineral and licorice.. Score - 90. $37.00
Friday, July 3, 2009
Vintages July 4 release - Nothing too special, you might want to wait for the Monday sale
Not a brilliant release by any stretch of the imagination, there are still some products that caught my eye. The top selections that people will be lining up for are probably the two WS Top 100 choices, but I’m leaning toward the Celeste and the Cono Sur ISD.
LAN RESERVA 2004 Smart Buy. WS top 100– Score 90 points - $23.95
QUERCIABELLA CHIANTI CLASSICO 2006 Score 91 $34.95
CELESTE CRIANZA 2005 - 90. $19.95
CONO SUR 20 BARRELS CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2006 Maipo Valley Score 90 $24.95
Of the Whites
BURROWING OWL ESTATE WINERY CHARDONNAY 2006 Okanagan Valley, expensive but a terrific Canadian producer - where was this for the Canada Day release? $28.95
CLAY STATION VIOGNIER 2007 Lodi could be the one white to buy! $17.95
KENDALL-JACKSON VINTNER'S RESERVE CHARDONNAY 2007 California, Jackson Estate Grown - Of the two KJ OFFERINGS, THIS IS BETTER VALUE $12.95/half bottle
KIM CRAWFORD UNOAKED CHARDONNAY 2007 Always good $19.95
A Pair of ROSÉs
SLOWINE ROSÉ 2008WO Overberg $11.95
STREWN CABERNET ROSÉ 2008VQA Ontario $12.95
Washington St.
Three high priced and well made products each with its own well known winemaker. From Long Shadow Vineyards in Washington St. too rich for me at $75 each
FEATHER CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2004 winemaker: Randy Dunn of Dunn Vineyards
PEDESTAL MERLOT 2004 The winemaker is Mr. Frequent Flyer, Michel Rolland,
SEQUEL SYRAH 2005 Former Penfolds' winemaker John Duval
A Chilean Reprise
MONTES ALPHA CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2006 – a big bottle of a perrenial favourite $43.95 This large-format bottle will typically need more time in the cellar.
Three from OZ
ROCKBARE SHIRAZ 2006McLaren Vale, Should be a good buy at $19.95
CHATEAU REYNELLA BASKET PRESSED SHIRAZ 2005McLaren Vale, really big but slightly overpriced now at $34.95
CORIOLE VINEYARDS ESTATE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2006McLaren Vale, South Australia $24.95
3 from California
Z-52 AGNES' VINEYARD OLD VINES ZINFANDEL 2005Lodi Z-52 specializes exclusively in vineyard-designated Zinfandel.- 90. $28.95
GALLO FAMILY FREI RANCH VINEYARD CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2003Dry Creek Valley – always good fruit, lots of tar ( to my palate) $35.95
RODNEY STRONG ALEXANDER'S CROWN CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005Alexander Valley, Single Vineyard $39.95
In store Discoveries
Of the Instore discoveries that I can afford, two stood out:
VASSE FELIX HEYTESBURY CHARDONNAY 2006 Score - 96. – remember that’s a James Halliday score but still 96 points!. $50.00
CONO SUR 20 BARRELS CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2006 Maipo Valley Score 90 $24.95
LAN RESERVA 2004 Smart Buy. WS top 100– Score 90 points - $23.95
QUERCIABELLA CHIANTI CLASSICO 2006 Score 91 $34.95
CELESTE CRIANZA 2005 - 90. $19.95
CONO SUR 20 BARRELS CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2006 Maipo Valley Score 90 $24.95
Of the Whites
BURROWING OWL ESTATE WINERY CHARDONNAY 2006 Okanagan Valley, expensive but a terrific Canadian producer - where was this for the Canada Day release? $28.95
CLAY STATION VIOGNIER 2007 Lodi could be the one white to buy! $17.95
KENDALL-JACKSON VINTNER'S RESERVE CHARDONNAY 2007 California, Jackson Estate Grown - Of the two KJ OFFERINGS, THIS IS BETTER VALUE $12.95/half bottle
KIM CRAWFORD UNOAKED CHARDONNAY 2007 Always good $19.95
A Pair of ROSÉs
SLOWINE ROSÉ 2008WO Overberg $11.95
STREWN CABERNET ROSÉ 2008VQA Ontario $12.95
Washington St.
Three high priced and well made products each with its own well known winemaker. From Long Shadow Vineyards in Washington St. too rich for me at $75 each
FEATHER CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2004 winemaker: Randy Dunn of Dunn Vineyards
PEDESTAL MERLOT 2004 The winemaker is Mr. Frequent Flyer, Michel Rolland,
SEQUEL SYRAH 2005 Former Penfolds' winemaker John Duval
A Chilean Reprise
MONTES ALPHA CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2006 – a big bottle of a perrenial favourite $43.95 This large-format bottle will typically need more time in the cellar.
Three from OZ
ROCKBARE SHIRAZ 2006McLaren Vale, Should be a good buy at $19.95
CHATEAU REYNELLA BASKET PRESSED SHIRAZ 2005McLaren Vale, really big but slightly overpriced now at $34.95
CORIOLE VINEYARDS ESTATE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2006McLaren Vale, South Australia $24.95
3 from California
Z-52 AGNES' VINEYARD OLD VINES ZINFANDEL 2005Lodi Z-52 specializes exclusively in vineyard-designated Zinfandel.- 90. $28.95
GALLO FAMILY FREI RANCH VINEYARD CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2003Dry Creek Valley – always good fruit, lots of tar ( to my palate) $35.95
RODNEY STRONG ALEXANDER'S CROWN CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005Alexander Valley, Single Vineyard $39.95
In store Discoveries
Of the Instore discoveries that I can afford, two stood out:
VASSE FELIX HEYTESBURY CHARDONNAY 2006 Score - 96. – remember that’s a James Halliday score but still 96 points!. $50.00
CONO SUR 20 BARRELS CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2006 Maipo Valley Score 90 $24.95
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Vintages June 20th Release - Dad's Day and Malbecs
My Picks:
If I buy nothing else, I’ll buy the Concha y Toro Terrunyo. And I’ll buy as much as I can afford.
2005 Concha y Toro Terrunyo Vineyard Selection Cabernet Sauvignon - $29.95 – If you like The Vintages Essential Marques de Casa Concha and especially if you like Concha Y Toro’s now exorbitantly priced Don Melchor, buy this up! It is the best QPR cab coming out of Chile and maybe the best cab period in my opinion. If the label said Napa, it’d be $75 minimum!
2007 Dominio del Plata Susana Balbo Signature Malbec - $27.95 WS90 – Fabulous winemaker, gets the best from her grapes. Always full bodied, ripe and intense – the wines, not her.
2006 Kaiken Ultra Malbec - $19.95 – Probably the best buy QPR wise among the Malbecs, should be lots of it.
2008 Mulderbosch Cabernet Sauvignon Rose - $12.95 An annual favourite rose. I’ll buy more than a few.
2007 Domaine Galevan-Paroles de Femme Cotes du Rhone - $15.00 – Lots of it and well priced. Parker says 89 -90…might only be 86 but a terrific summer sipper with char-B-Q! (Not burnt Barbq but rather Charcouterie and or BarBQ – ahhh, BP you are so continental!)
2006 Valpantena Terre di Verona Valpolicella Superiore Ripasso - $17.95 – My sleeper pick, I’m going to try one and if I like it go back for more.
And as always, keep your eyes open for the biweekly Vintages sleeper sales. Anything that has not sold a certain % after so many weeks goes on markdown. Some substantial MD%’s for very good, but under appreciated wines!
ARGENTINA MALBEC SPOTLIGHT
2008 Altos Las Hormigas Malbec - $14.95 WS87 – The best bargain.
2006 Kaiken Ultra Malbec - $19.95 – Probably the best buy QPR wise among the Malbecs, should be lots of it.
2007 Dominio del Plata Susana Balbo Signature Malbec - $27.95 WS90 – Fabulous winemaker, gets the best from her grapes. Always full bodied, ripe and intense – the wines, not her.
2006 Vina Cobos Bramare Malbec - $39.95- RP94 – Hobbs in Napa, Vina Cobos in Argentina. Should be huge but give me 3 Susanas for two of these.
2006 Trapiche Broquel Malbec - $15.95– A toss up with the Altos las Hormigas for Best bargain.
2006 Trivento Golden Reserve Malbec - $24.95 –WS88
2006 Navarro Correas Alegoria Gran Reserva Malbec - $18.95 – IWC88
2008 Chakana Malbec - $13.95 – Always good.
2007 Michel Torino Estate Don David Reserve Malbec - $12.95 – Don’t know it, so a sleeper in the release. Might be the wine to have if you’re going to watch Clint in Gran …ahhh couldn’t resist…
Canada Day Feature
Gotta wave the flag! But where are the BC wines? Last time I looked, Ontario was NOT Canada, it was just part of Canada.
2006 Hidden Bench Terroir Cache Meritage - $34.00
2008 Henry of Pelham Cabernet Sauvignon Rose - $14.95
FATHER’S DAY FEATURE – Just get me a gift certificate and let me pick my wines.
MAIN RELEASE
2005 Concha y Toro Terrunyo Vineyard Selection Cabernet Sauvignon - $29.95 see my picks!
2007 Domaine Galevan-Paroles de Femme Cotes du Rhone - $15.00 – see my picks
2006 Santa Carolina Reserva de Familia Cabernet Sauvignon - $19.95 – always very good
2005 Echevverria Family Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon - $21.95 WS89 – always very good
2005 Greg Norman California Estates Cabernet Sauvignon - $24.95
2006 Clayhouse Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon - $18.95
2004 Evans & Tate Shiraz - $19.95 WS88;
2005 Pierre Sourdais Cuvee Tradition Chinon - $20.95 DEC4
2005 Tenuta Cocci Grifoni Le Torri - $18.95 RP88
2006 Firriato Chiaramonte Nero d’Avola - $18.95 (1) WS88
2006 Fontodi Chianti Classico - $28.95 (1) RP91
2006 Valpantena Terre di Verona Valpolicella Superiore Ripasso - $17.95
The two Rose Picks:
2008 Peter Lehmann Rose - $15.95
2008 Mulderbosch Cabernet Sauvignon Rose - $12.95 My annual favourite rose. I’ll buy more than a few.
IN STORE DISCOVERIES
2005 Planeta Syrah - $39.00 90 plus points…terrific wine but it'll be hard to find.
The Big Buck Entries including a few ex VSO opportunities
2003 Clarendon Hills Moritz Syrah - $65.00 RP95; WS93; WE93; NW99;
2006 Petaluma Shiraz - $48.00
2005 Vina Cobos Bramare Cabernet Sauvignon - $39.95 RP92;
2006 Vina Cobos Bramare Cabernet Sauvignon - $39.95 RP93; - see the Vina Cobos Malbec note earlier on…These would also be over $70 out of Napa. And a few years after the world economy turns around, they probably will be.
Ojai Thompson Vineyard Syrah - RP93+
J.J. Hahn 1928 Shiraz - $38.95 – RP91-93;
2004 John’s Blend Individual Selection No. 31 Cabernet Sauvignon - $39.95
2005 Chateau St. Jean Cabernet Sauvignon - $39.95
2003 Caparzo Brunello di Montalcino - $59.95 –RP92
If I buy nothing else, I’ll buy the Concha y Toro Terrunyo. And I’ll buy as much as I can afford.
2005 Concha y Toro Terrunyo Vineyard Selection Cabernet Sauvignon - $29.95 – If you like The Vintages Essential Marques de Casa Concha and especially if you like Concha Y Toro’s now exorbitantly priced Don Melchor, buy this up! It is the best QPR cab coming out of Chile and maybe the best cab period in my opinion. If the label said Napa, it’d be $75 minimum!
2007 Dominio del Plata Susana Balbo Signature Malbec - $27.95 WS90 – Fabulous winemaker, gets the best from her grapes. Always full bodied, ripe and intense – the wines, not her.
2006 Kaiken Ultra Malbec - $19.95 – Probably the best buy QPR wise among the Malbecs, should be lots of it.
2008 Mulderbosch Cabernet Sauvignon Rose - $12.95 An annual favourite rose. I’ll buy more than a few.
2007 Domaine Galevan-Paroles de Femme Cotes du Rhone - $15.00 – Lots of it and well priced. Parker says 89 -90…might only be 86 but a terrific summer sipper with char-B-Q! (Not burnt Barbq but rather Charcouterie and or BarBQ – ahhh, BP you are so continental!)
2006 Valpantena Terre di Verona Valpolicella Superiore Ripasso - $17.95 – My sleeper pick, I’m going to try one and if I like it go back for more.
And as always, keep your eyes open for the biweekly Vintages sleeper sales. Anything that has not sold a certain % after so many weeks goes on markdown. Some substantial MD%’s for very good, but under appreciated wines!
ARGENTINA MALBEC SPOTLIGHT
2008 Altos Las Hormigas Malbec - $14.95 WS87 – The best bargain.
2006 Kaiken Ultra Malbec - $19.95 – Probably the best buy QPR wise among the Malbecs, should be lots of it.
2007 Dominio del Plata Susana Balbo Signature Malbec - $27.95 WS90 – Fabulous winemaker, gets the best from her grapes. Always full bodied, ripe and intense – the wines, not her.
2006 Vina Cobos Bramare Malbec - $39.95- RP94 – Hobbs in Napa, Vina Cobos in Argentina. Should be huge but give me 3 Susanas for two of these.
2006 Trapiche Broquel Malbec - $15.95– A toss up with the Altos las Hormigas for Best bargain.
2006 Trivento Golden Reserve Malbec - $24.95 –WS88
2006 Navarro Correas Alegoria Gran Reserva Malbec - $18.95 – IWC88
2008 Chakana Malbec - $13.95 – Always good.
2007 Michel Torino Estate Don David Reserve Malbec - $12.95 – Don’t know it, so a sleeper in the release. Might be the wine to have if you’re going to watch Clint in Gran …ahhh couldn’t resist…
Canada Day Feature
Gotta wave the flag! But where are the BC wines? Last time I looked, Ontario was NOT Canada, it was just part of Canada.
2006 Hidden Bench Terroir Cache Meritage - $34.00
2008 Henry of Pelham Cabernet Sauvignon Rose - $14.95
FATHER’S DAY FEATURE – Just get me a gift certificate and let me pick my wines.
MAIN RELEASE
2005 Concha y Toro Terrunyo Vineyard Selection Cabernet Sauvignon - $29.95 see my picks!
2007 Domaine Galevan-Paroles de Femme Cotes du Rhone - $15.00 – see my picks
2006 Santa Carolina Reserva de Familia Cabernet Sauvignon - $19.95 – always very good
2005 Echevverria Family Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon - $21.95 WS89 – always very good
2005 Greg Norman California Estates Cabernet Sauvignon - $24.95
2006 Clayhouse Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon - $18.95
2004 Evans & Tate Shiraz - $19.95 WS88;
2005 Pierre Sourdais Cuvee Tradition Chinon - $20.95 DEC4
2005 Tenuta Cocci Grifoni Le Torri - $18.95 RP88
2006 Firriato Chiaramonte Nero d’Avola - $18.95 (1) WS88
2006 Fontodi Chianti Classico - $28.95 (1) RP91
2006 Valpantena Terre di Verona Valpolicella Superiore Ripasso - $17.95
The two Rose Picks:
2008 Peter Lehmann Rose - $15.95
2008 Mulderbosch Cabernet Sauvignon Rose - $12.95 My annual favourite rose. I’ll buy more than a few.
IN STORE DISCOVERIES
2005 Planeta Syrah - $39.00 90 plus points…terrific wine but it'll be hard to find.
The Big Buck Entries including a few ex VSO opportunities
2003 Clarendon Hills Moritz Syrah - $65.00 RP95; WS93; WE93; NW99;
2006 Petaluma Shiraz - $48.00
2005 Vina Cobos Bramare Cabernet Sauvignon - $39.95 RP92;
2006 Vina Cobos Bramare Cabernet Sauvignon - $39.95 RP93; - see the Vina Cobos Malbec note earlier on…These would also be over $70 out of Napa. And a few years after the world economy turns around, they probably will be.
Ojai Thompson Vineyard Syrah - RP93+
J.J. Hahn 1928 Shiraz - $38.95 – RP91-93;
2004 John’s Blend Individual Selection No. 31 Cabernet Sauvignon - $39.95
2005 Chateau St. Jean Cabernet Sauvignon - $39.95
2003 Caparzo Brunello di Montalcino - $59.95 –RP92
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Vintages June 6th release - An Ironic release, not iconic, ironic
Ahhh, the LCBO and their fine sense of irony - That this would be a Burgundy focused release, yet the best pinot noir value and maybe the best Pinot Noir in it is an In Store Discovery from South America!
THE ROSE Picks – Will buy a few to compare to the Sandbanks rose that we enjoy so much, but I’ll also hold out for the Stellenbosch rose from South Africa in the next release.
2008 Tawse Sketches of Niagara Rose - $12.30
2008 Thirteenth Street June’s Vineyard Cabernet Rose - $15.95
2008 Kim Crawford Pansy! Rose - $17.95 – really enjoyed it last year.
MAIN RELEASE
The Top Picks:
2006 Jim Barry The Lodge Hill Shiraz - $24.95 WS91/ RP90; / WE91; / 3 Golds – Luv this wine…usually very similar to and a wee bit better than Leasingham’s Bin 61. You cannot go wrong here but move fast.
2007 Montes Alpha Cabernet Sauvignon - $21.95 – Luv this wine and producer…the ’06 was a stealth release…this is the ’07 I think!
2006 Famiglia Bianchi Cabernet Sauvignon - $16. WE88 – in an apparent toss up with the Zolo, I’ll take the Famiglia Bianchi – less $$’s and it just never disappoints.
2003 Chateau Ste. Michelle Indian Wells Merlot - $23.95 – Washington State, Ready to drink right now for sure, some age on it.
2005 Chateau de Serame Reserve du Chateau Minervois - $22.95 WS90 – Southern Rhone style from the Midi.
The best of the rest
2006 Catena Syrah - $19.95 – Quality producer on a real hot streak.
2007 Calafate Reserva Malbec - $16.95 –IWSC Silver(Best in Class) – stick with the Cabs from Argentina this time around. The Next Release has a Mr. Malbec feature.
2005 Zolo Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon - $18.95 RP88; in an apparent toss up, I’ll take the Famiglia Bianchi – it just never disappoints.
2006 Tabali Reserva Especial - $21.95 This is a proprietary blend that got Five Stars from Decanter and $22?! Gotta try one at least!
2006 Odfjell Armador Cabernet Sauvignon - $15.95: IWC88 – Another bargain cab!
2005 Glen Eldon Dry Bore Barossa Shiraz - $29.95 –RP91 – Nice wine, but too expensive. If you can find the Lodge Hill Shiraz, do!
2006 Wyndham Estate Founder’s Reserve Limestone Coast Shiraz / Cabernet - $23.95 –Gold medal winner
2006 Domaine Costa Lazaridis Amethystos Red - $24.95 WE90 – Having a Greek inspired BBQ? – Look no further for your wine!
Price is no Object
2004 Pio Cesare Barolo - $74.95 WS94; RP93; IWC92-93 – WS Top 100 number 6 – they’ll be lining up for it!
2005 Tardieu-Lurent Vieilles Vignes Chateauneuf-du-Pape - $84.95 – WS96; RP91-93 Would love to buy some but sorry, too much!
724336 – 2002 Peter Lehmann Mentor - $42.95– RP91
932400 – 2006 Frog’s Leap Cabernet Sauvignon - $63.95 –
2006 FOLEY RANCHO SANTA ROSA PINOT NOIR Score - 92 - $53.95 – Buy this if you want to spend big bucks on a Pinot.
IN STORE DISCOVERIES
2007 Cono Sur 20 Barrels Limited Edition Pinot Noir - $27.95 – might be the best Burgundy in the release…ironically, it’s Chilean!
THE ROSE Picks – Will buy a few to compare to the Sandbanks rose that we enjoy so much, but I’ll also hold out for the Stellenbosch rose from South Africa in the next release.
2008 Tawse Sketches of Niagara Rose - $12.30
2008 Thirteenth Street June’s Vineyard Cabernet Rose - $15.95
2008 Kim Crawford Pansy! Rose - $17.95 – really enjoyed it last year.
MAIN RELEASE
The Top Picks:
2006 Jim Barry The Lodge Hill Shiraz - $24.95 WS91/ RP90; / WE91; / 3 Golds – Luv this wine…usually very similar to and a wee bit better than Leasingham’s Bin 61. You cannot go wrong here but move fast.
2007 Montes Alpha Cabernet Sauvignon - $21.95 – Luv this wine and producer…the ’06 was a stealth release…this is the ’07 I think!
2006 Famiglia Bianchi Cabernet Sauvignon - $16. WE88 – in an apparent toss up with the Zolo, I’ll take the Famiglia Bianchi – less $$’s and it just never disappoints.
2003 Chateau Ste. Michelle Indian Wells Merlot - $23.95 – Washington State, Ready to drink right now for sure, some age on it.
2005 Chateau de Serame Reserve du Chateau Minervois - $22.95 WS90 – Southern Rhone style from the Midi.
The best of the rest
2006 Catena Syrah - $19.95 – Quality producer on a real hot streak.
2007 Calafate Reserva Malbec - $16.95 –IWSC Silver(Best in Class) – stick with the Cabs from Argentina this time around. The Next Release has a Mr. Malbec feature.
2005 Zolo Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon - $18.95 RP88; in an apparent toss up, I’ll take the Famiglia Bianchi – it just never disappoints.
2006 Tabali Reserva Especial - $21.95 This is a proprietary blend that got Five Stars from Decanter and $22?! Gotta try one at least!
2006 Odfjell Armador Cabernet Sauvignon - $15.95: IWC88 – Another bargain cab!
2005 Glen Eldon Dry Bore Barossa Shiraz - $29.95 –RP91 – Nice wine, but too expensive. If you can find the Lodge Hill Shiraz, do!
2006 Wyndham Estate Founder’s Reserve Limestone Coast Shiraz / Cabernet - $23.95 –Gold medal winner
2006 Domaine Costa Lazaridis Amethystos Red - $24.95 WE90 – Having a Greek inspired BBQ? – Look no further for your wine!
Price is no Object
2004 Pio Cesare Barolo - $74.95 WS94; RP93; IWC92-93 – WS Top 100 number 6 – they’ll be lining up for it!
2005 Tardieu-Lurent Vieilles Vignes Chateauneuf-du-Pape - $84.95 – WS96; RP91-93 Would love to buy some but sorry, too much!
724336 – 2002 Peter Lehmann Mentor - $42.95– RP91
932400 – 2006 Frog’s Leap Cabernet Sauvignon - $63.95 –
2006 FOLEY RANCHO SANTA ROSA PINOT NOIR Score - 92 - $53.95 – Buy this if you want to spend big bucks on a Pinot.
IN STORE DISCOVERIES
2007 Cono Sur 20 Barrels Limited Edition Pinot Noir - $27.95 – might be the best Burgundy in the release…ironically, it’s Chilean!
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